1st presidential debate set for Friday

September 20, 2008 3:57:00 PM PDT

OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI --

One of the most eagerly anticipated events on the political calendar is coming up.Barack Obama and John McCain will square off next Friday in Oxford, Mississippi, in the first of three presidential debates.

Their running mates Joe Biden and Sarah Palin hold a single debate Thursday, October 2nd, in St. Louis.

For Obama, the debates are a chance to halt McCain's momentum and re-establish his image as a fresh political force after eight years of Republican White House control.

They give McCain the opportunity to press doubts about Obama's experience and try to show he's still on the top of his game at age 72.

In past debate settings, McCain has managed to win over crowds with his humor and empathy, and at the same time, slice up foes with a flash of contempt.

Obama is known as a powerful speaker. He has shown wit and charm in political debates, but can come across as aloof, windy and somewhat lifeless. One debate expert says the key for Obama will be to stay on offense to shape the discussion and connect with undecided voters.